The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has deployed the BRP Malapascua (MRRV-4403) and BRP Sindangan (MRRV-4407) to Scarborough Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc, to ensure the safety of Filipino fishermen amid threats from China to detain “foreign trespassers.”
Ensuring Fishermen’s Safety
PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Javan directed the deployment to protect local fishermen in the area. PCG spokesman Rear Admiral Armando Balilo reported that PCG personnel spoke with two local fishermen, checking on the health and operations of the FBCA PRINCESS YHAN YHAN and FBCA RUNDEL-1, which have 12 and seven crew members respectively.
Balilo also addressed the China Coast Guard’s (CCG) threats to arrest non-Chinese fishermen in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). The PCG assured the fishermen that their safety and security would be upheld during their fishing activities. Additionally, the Coast Guard provided food and medicines to the fishermen.
Maritime Patrol and Observations
During the patrol, the BRP Sindangan was shadowed by CCG-3106 at approximately 800 yards from its starboard bow, with two other CCG vessels in the vicinity. Meanwhile, the BRP Teresa Magbanua continued its maritime operations off Sabina Shoal and near Palawan.
Chino Gaston reported on 24 Oras that the PCG brought supplies and checked on the welfare of fishers in the disputed waters. There have been no arrests of Filipino fishermen by China thus far.
Government and Community Engagement
Government officials and the fishing community of Masinloc discussed the need for increased PCG patrols to ensure the fishermen’s safety. PCG Commander Severino Destura Jr. advised fishermen to avoid fishing near Chinese Coast Guard vessels, especially in small groups.
Senator Francis Tolentino, chair of the Senate Special Committee on Philippine Maritime and Admiralty Zones, also reminded fishers to exercise caution and assured them of governmental support.
Chinese Military Presence
The Global Times, a Chinese news publication, reported that the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) deployed a Type 75 Landing Helicopter Dock to the South China Sea. This deployment is seen as a response to alleged provocations from the Philippines and follows a China Coast Guard policy to arrest foreigners in what China claims as its territory in the South China Sea.
Security analyst Ray Powell indicated that the deployment of the Chinese warship is an intimidation tactic aimed at the Philippines. He emphasized the need for the Philippines to prepare for potential detentions of foreigners by China.